It was as if all of heaven were excited about Reds Opening Day 2016. The gray clouds parted, the rain ceased, and blue skies welcomed the 97th Opening Day Parade.

Founded in 1920, the Findlay Market Opening Day Parade is an annual Cincinnati tradition that marks the beginning of the Reds baseball season. The parade has turned into a celebration of the city. It is an anticipated opportunity for the community to show its support and pride in having the nation’s first professional baseball team. The Findlay Market Association hosts the parade each year. Their goal in 2016 was to create a smaller, better parade that maintained the interest of spectators along the route, as well as viewers on television. The FMA selected the best 175 units and each entry was chosen for its quality, unique design, and or its celebration of the Findlay Market, the Cincinnati Reds, or the city of Cincinnati in general. Marching bands, floats and groups from around Greater Cincinnati were enthusiastic and entertaining. Babies, kids, parents, grandparents, and even dogs clad in Cincinnati Reds gear enjoyed this big day of celebration and support.

This year’s parade went back to the standard route of years past. The parade started at Findlay Market on Race Street, then continued straight down Race until turning east onto Fifth Street, thrilling those waiting at Fountain Square. Next, the parade went right past beautiful Washington Park and ended at the Taft Theater. The celebration continued throughout the day at Fountain Square with concessions and watching the game on the big screen.

Former Reds manager, Lou Piniella, served as grand marshal. He said he was humbled to hold this honor and thrilled with the turnout. Piniella was at the helm when the Reds last won the World Series. The Findlay Market Parade is a Cincinnati tradition that will continue as long as we love and support our Cincinnati Reds and this great city.

Also, I must give a shout out to Sharon Suder, owner of Suder's Art Store on Vine Street. She was so very gracious to allow me to park in the store's parking lot while I took photo of the parade. Suder's has been framing Cincinnati's art for more than 80 years. They also accommodate out-of-the-ordinary supplies and services for artists.